Leisure Diving | Fun Dives | 3 Dives in TARP, Kota Kinabalu

If you’re looking for a way to add a splash of adventure to your trip to Kota Kinabalu, this Leisure Diving experience at Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park (TARP) promises a full day of vibrant marine life, expert guidance, and a hassle-free setup. While we haven’t personally snorkeled or dove on this trip, the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions paint a picture of a well-organized, worthwhile outing for those with some diving experience.

What we really love about this tour is the all-inclusive approach that takes the stress out of the day—professional guides, top-quality equipment, boat transfers, permits, and even a tasty island lunch. The small group sizes (max 1:5) mean you’ll enjoy personalized attention and fewer crowds at the dive sites. Plus, the chance to see turtles and sharks makes it an exciting proposition. One thing to keep in mind: this is geared toward experienced divers, so if you’re a complete beginner, this might not be the best fit.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want to maximize their underwater time and trust the local experts to handle logistics. It’s suited for those with a moderate physical fitness level who want a professional, safe, and intimate diving experience in Malaysia’s stunning marine environment.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Package: Equipment, permits, boat transfers, and lunch included for seamless enjoyment.
• Small Group Tours: Max 1:5 ratio means more personalized guidance and fewer crowds.
• Three Exciting Dives: Dive up to 82 feet across different sites, with chances to spot turtles and sharks.
• Expert Guides: PADI-certified professionals like Didi, Alex, and Basir are praised for their attentiveness and spotting skills.
• Convenient Meeting Point: Pick-up from Jesselton Point Jetty simplifies planning.
• Ideal for Experienced Divers: Moderate fitness and previous diving experience recommended.

How the Tour Is Structured

The day begins with collection from the centrally located Jesselton Point Jetty, a convenient spot easily accessible for most travelers. From there, a boat whisks you out to TARP’s diverse dive sites. The total duration is roughly a full day, with three dives spaced out by a hearty lunch on one of the tropical islands—an essential perk because it offers a break and a chance to soak up the scenic surroundings.

The tour’s core focus is on three tank dives, allowing you to explore different parts of the marine park. You’ll spend the day in small groups, with a maximum of five divers per guide, which greatly improves the experience by reducing congestion and enabling more personalized attention from your guides.

What Makes the Marine Park Special?

TARP’s underwater landscape is vibrant, with depths reaching up to 82 feet. The sites are famous for their colorful coral gardens, abundant reef fish, and larger residents like turtles, which are spotted frequently according to reviews. Some lucky divers have even seen sharks, stingrays, and other marine creatures, thanks to the keen eyes of the guides.

Many reviewers mention the diverse marine life. One noted seeing a green turtle at Hanging Garden and a stingray at Sapi, while others highlighted the impressive coral formations and shoals of reef fish. The reefs are reportedly pristine and teeming, making each dive a unique experience.

The Dive Experience

The full diving equipment is provided, so there’s no need to worry about lugging gear or checking sizes beforehand. The guides, especially Alex and Didi, are praised for their attentiveness and ability to spot marine life, making even the more nervous divers feel comfortable. For those who haven’t dived in a while, reviews mention how patient and capable the guides are—crucial for boosting confidence.

Expect the dives to be well-organized, with briefings that are clear and informative. The marine sites are often described as having stunning coral formations and a stack of fish, making these three dives a visual feast. Reviewers have pointed out that even experienced divers appreciate the small group size, which allows for better interaction and observation.

The Island Lunch and Relaxation

After two dives in the morning, you’ll head to a tropical island for a complimentary restaurant lunch. This is a perfect opportunity to relax, refuel, and enjoy the island scenery. Some reviews mention how the lunch adds a nice touch to the day, offering local flavors in a scenic setting. The island itself provides a laid-back atmosphere to unwind before the final dive.

The Final Dive and End of the Day

The third dive rounds out the day, often at a different site to maximize exposure to the park’s marine diversity. Many divers say the last dive tends to be just as exciting as the first, with fish, coral, and the chance to see larger animals. Afterward, you’ll return to Jesselton Point, often with a sense of accomplishment and a camera full of colorful underwater shots.

The Value of the Tour

At $105 per person, this tour represents excellent value, especially considering all inclusions—equipment, permits, transfers, and lunch. Compared to individual expenses for gear, boat hire, and food, it offers a streamlined, cost-effective way to enjoy multiple dives in a protected marine environment.

The small group size and professionalism of guides ensure safety and personalized attention, which many reviews highlight as their favorite part. The fact that the tour is booked on average 17 days in advance shows how popular it is among travelers wanting a reliable diving day.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for divers with some previous experience who want to explore the vibrant marine life of Kota Kinabalu without hassle. It’s less suited for absolute beginners or non-divers, as the focus is on multiple, deeper dives and safety with experienced guides. Nature lovers and underwater photography enthusiasts will especially appreciate the clear waters and diverse scenes.

Final Thoughts

This Leisure Diving tour in TARP offers a well-rounded, professionally guided opportunity to explore some of Malaysia’s best underwater scenery. It combines convenience, safety, and intimacy—attributes that both experienced divers and those looking to rekindle their love of the water will appreciate.

The genuine praise for guides like Alex, Didi, and Basir, along with the stunning underwater landscapes, reaffirm the high value of this experience. Whether you’re after the thrill of spotting turtles and sharks or simply want to marvel at coral gardens, this tour delivers in spades.

If you’re an experienced diver seeking a stress-free day of exploring pristine coral reefs and abundant marine life, this tour is a solid choice. It’s ideal for those who appreciate small groups and attentive guides, ensuring a tailored and safe adventure. Nature lovers and underwater photography enthusiasts will find plenty of opportunities to capture memorable shots.

Travelers who value convenience and inclusivity will find this tour hard to beat—everything from gear to lunch is taken care of, letting you focus purely on enjoying the underwater spectacle. Keep in mind that the tour is best suited for individuals with a moderate physical fitness level and previous diving experience.

Do I need to bring my own diving equipment?
No, all necessary equipment is provided as part of the tour, including full gear for each diver.

How many dives are included?
You will participate in three separate dives throughout the day.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, there is a free cancellation policy if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

Where does the tour start?
The meeting point is Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal, which is easy to access and near public transportation.

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
While the tour is designed for experienced divers, your physical fitness level should be moderate. It may not be ideal for complete beginners.

What is the maximum depth for the dives?
Dives can go down to about 82 feet, offering chances to see a wide variety of marine life and coral formations.

What should I bring with me?
The tour covers equipment, permits, transfers, and lunch, so just bring your personal essentials, a towel, and your underwater camera if you have one.

This comprehensive review highlights why the Leisure Diving tour at TARP is a top choice for underwater enthusiasts visiting Kota Kinabalu. With expert guides, all equipment provided, and three diverse dives, it offers a memorable window into Malaysia’s vibrant marine world—perfect for those seeking adventure and authenticity on their vacation.